South Okanagan

It was a Father's Day Laura Egeland and her fiance Joe will never forget - for all the wrong reasons.

Photo: Contributed - Oliver Daily News

The two were riding on his motorcycle along Highway 97 near Oliver on Father's Day a year ago when they were involved in a horrific crash.

They were heading home at the time.

A truck, which had briefly pulled off to the side of the road, was attempting to merge back onto the highway.

The truck pulled out in front of the motorcycle which, according to witnesses, didn't have time to stop.

The two riders crashed into the truck.

Laura and Joe were airlifted to Kelowna General Hospital with what were described as serious injuries.

They both spent two months in hospital following serious below knee amputations among other injuries suffered.

"(The crash) has changed out lives forever and we owe a HUGE thanks to the people who assisted in getting us to where we are today," says Egeland in a thank you letter sent to Castanet.

"As there were so many people who assisted us on that day and following that day, and so many people we need to say thanks to, it seems fitting to post our thanks publicly for those of you to read."

Thanks, adds Egeland, just doesn't seem to be enough.

"A huge thanks to the off duty medical staff who assisted on scene, the Air Ambulance attendants as well as all the medical staff at both the South Okanagan Hospital and Kelowna General Hospital (SCCU staff, 2 West staff, rehabilitation staff, physiotherapy staff, physicians and surgeons)."

"To all our friends and family who have been simply amazing, we couldn't have done it without you."